Dimond O

Conveniently located less than eight miles from the Big Oak Flat entrance to the mutts-visit Yosemite National Park, Dimond O Campground is a brilliant place for you and your pup to pitch your tent! Perched on the banks of the Middle Fork of the Tuolumne River, the campground is surrounded by ponderosa pine and sweet-smelling cedar trees, and almost all sites are well-shaded. Facilities at Dimond O are a little rustic -- there aren’t any shower stations, electricity or RV hookups -- but the area is charming, and you’re close to all kinds of entertaining outdoor activities. As an added bonus, almost all sites are accessible! Because of the location, Dimond O is in great demand during the summer, so it’s best to book your spot early.

With Yosemite National Park so close, you’d be barking mad not to check it out! Keep in mind though that while the Big Oak Flat entrance is nearby, Yosemite Valley is an extra twenty-four miles from the gate. Not all trails in the national park are Fido-friendly, so be sure to look up a map before you go! The gorgeous glacial valley of Hetchy Hetchy, in the northwestern part of the park, is a little closer to camp. The Carlon Falls Trail is closer still, but unfortunately off-limits to hound-dog hikers. Keen anglers will be glad to know that the Middle Fork of the Tuolumne River is a popular fishing spot, and it’s also open to two-legged and four-pawed swimmers.

Wifi isn’t available at Dimond O campground, and cell service ranges from spotty to non-existent, so those who need to stay in constant contact might want to camp elsewhere. Otherwise, enjoy your digital detox! Fires are permitted in designated rings and grills only, and like most other parts of California, fire regulations can change with the weather. You’ll also find drinking water available on-site. Remember to bring waste bags to do your part in keeping the camp clean, and have a furrific vacation!